Saturday, February 24th, 2018 at 12:02am

Boosters of Coronado Historic Site are planning an art auction fundraiser to support the archaeological location in Bernalillo.

Hosted by the Friends of Coronado Historic Site, art made in New Mexico that includes paintings, pottery, sculptures, textiles and more – old and new – will be auctioned, according to a news release issued by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs on Friday.

A view of the Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande from the Coronado Historic Site. (Source: Jack Ellis/New Mexico Cultural Affairs)

“More than 250 auction items will be available for bidding on Saturday, March 24, at the Prairie Star Golf Course in Bernalillo,” the release reads.

A preview of the artwork starts at 9 a.m., with bidding at 1 p.m. Attendees are advised to arrive early to reserve a seat, obtain a free bidding number, and to enjoy lunch. Credit card, cash and check payments for purchases will be accepted. To see some of the auction items, visit www.kuaua.com.

Money raised from the fundraiser will go toward historic preservation and research at the site.

Friends of Coronado Historic Site is accepting consignments from artists, owners and merchants at wholesale prices from March 11 to 22 at the site on U.S. 550 next to the Coronado campground. Those who offer consignment items will be paid 85 percent of the hammer price, the news release says.

“Although art donations are not required, they will be accepted and appreciated to help with our fund-raising effort,” the release reads.

Founded in 2003, Friends of Coronado Historic Site “provides volunteer services and financial support to the Coronado Historic Site.”

The group also hosts workshops, field trips, special events and lectures, and started a student scholarship program in 2017 to conduct research at the location, according to the release.

“In 1540, Francisco Vásquez de Coronado encountered the Tiwa people of Kuaua village. Here, you can see 500-year-old Kuaua murals and join a docent-led tour of the painted kiva, providing a glimpse into the religious life of the Tiwa people, which is shrouded in secrecy even today. A museum and nature trails are also available.”